Overview
- A federal hearing at the Centro de Justicia Penal Federal in Mexico City, presided over by Judge Ángela Griselda Zamorano Herrera, will determine if the former Veracruz governor qualifies for pre-release.
- The FGR plans to present six witnesses and internal Reclusorio Norte documents alleging 2019–2021 infractions, including possession of alcohol, a modified modem and other banned electronics.
- Prosecutors argue these incidents constitute serious violations that undermine the certification of good conduct Duarte submitted with his request.
- Duarte’s defense says he has served about 95% of his nine-year sentence and met reintegration requirements through approved activities and recent compliant behavior.
- Even if the judge grants pre-release, a pending appeal by the Veracruz state prosecutor’s office and ongoing pressure from victims’ groups, including an ICC complaint over alleged forced disappearances, could complicate his path to freedom.